Hello, and welcome to the Intelligence from the Economist.

I'm your host, Ore Ogumbi.

Every weekday we provide a fresh perspective on the events shaping your world.

Australia's indigenous people have been historically underrepresented in the country's politics.

Now, Parliament has tabled a referendum that aims to give them more of a voice.

But will it pass?

And how have Birkenstocks become cool again?

Well, think Barbie.

The Corkbed Sandole has had a bumpy year.

But could the brand be tripped up by unforgiving fashion cycles?

But first.

On day six of the conflict in Israel, the bombing campaign in the Gaza Strip has been ramping up.

Israeli defence forces are trying to drive out Hamas, the militant group that launched a devastating surprise attack on the country last weekend.

But Hamas is showing little sign of relenting, and just this morning another barrage of rockets landed in Israel.

More than 1,300 Israeli citizens have died since the war began.

And at least 150 civilians have been taken hostage.

Among the dead and captured are dozens of American citizens.

The US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, has now arrived in the Israeli capital.

And John Kirby, America's National Security Council spokesperson, told reporters.

I think we all need to steal ourselves for the very distinct possibility that these numbers will keep increasing.

And that we may, in fact, find out that more Americans are part of the hostage pool.

In Gaza, the humanitarian situation is worsening.

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